By Michael McMullan
IT took late points from Charlie Crozier and Ruairi Forbes for Ballinderry to edge out Banagher in the group stages.
Ballinderry coach Davy Harte admits the Shamrocks had put plenty into that game knowing top spot in the group rested on it.
The sides meet on Sunday (Owenbeg, 2pm) with the prize of a place in the final at stake.
“We were fortunate enough at the end,” admits Harte, brought in this season by manager Jarlath Bell.
“We pulled away with a few scores, but just as easy, they had chances and they could’ve been the team to have pulled through.”
Harte feels there is little to separate the dozen teams either side of the seniorintermediate divide in Derry.
Banagher had one hand on the cup last year before a late goal forced extra-time with Glenullin taking the glory.
Drumsurn, beaten finalists in 2022 are back knocking on the door against Faughanvale in the other semi-final.
“Both teams will be familiar with each other,” Harte said of their showdown with Banagher.
“Both teams have threats and both teams have pace. We are delighted to be in the semi-final, Banagher will obviously be looking to get back to a consecutive final and there is quality to do that.”
The Shamrocks’ early focus was putting down a solid foundation in the league after the disappointment of losing to Swatragh in a play-off that sent them to intermediate championship football after being one of the most decorated clubs in Ulster and beyond.00
“I know there was a lot of disappointment and hurt in the back of last year,” Harte said.
“There was real belief within the group that they have a really good bunch of players.
“They’re a young and emerging team, a lot of the boys in that team, and then when you mix that in with the experience and it all comes together, then you’re capable of a lot of things.”
Sunday’s win over Glenullin secured Ballinderry’s place in a revised 16-team senior championship for next season. With the ‘Glen bidding for a third successive title, it sharpened Ballinderry’s focus.
“It was a massive challenge and I’m just glad we were ready for it,” Harte said.
“As the boys were saying, another target in the back of your mind is you want to be back playing the senior championship football next year.
“As a group and a panel and a club, we’re delighted to have achieved that.”
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